WHAT: The Orange County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit plays an important role in our delivery of law enforcement service to the community. The use of K-9s has significantly reduced the man-hours used searching for suspects, evidence and narcotics; as well as significantly impacting officer safety by reducing property loss and injuries to deputies. Eight deputies and their canine partners currently provide service to the Sheriff’s Department’s thirteen contract cities, unincorporated areas and our law enforcement partners in the County. High levels of training and commitment by the canine deputies has established this Unit as one of the most highly respected in the state.

The Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE) will present the K-9 Unit deputies with a donation of 10 tactical vests to be worn by their K-9 partners. The goal of CARE is to help promote the health of animals in our communities. The vests will allow the animal to be lifted into locations easier, give the handler more control during apprehension efforts, and provide both ballistic and stab protections. They will be used during high risk SWAT operations and field operations where an armed and dangerous suspect is involved.

“The dogs are seen by their handlers as a partner, not just a tool,” said Sergeant Weckerle of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Services Unit. “It’s important they have a level of safety and protection equal to the officers.”

The tactical vests were donated to the K-9 Unit through the Orange County Sheriff’s Advisory Council.